Overview

This module is an opportunity for students to develop a piece of creative work along with a reflective commentary. Drawing on ideas and techniques learned in modules on specific literary forms, which may be studied before or alongside this one, participants will be guided through the process of planning, drafting and redrafting a portfolio of work in fiction, drama or poetry. Discussions with a supervisor will encourage a reflective and critical approach to the creative process, informing a commentary on the decisions made during writing. It provides an opportunity to develop an independent writing practice in preparation for the Creative Writing MA Dissertation. A professional practice strand gives students the opportunity to develop an understanding of writing in broader contexts of performance and publication.

This module is an opportunity for students to develop a piece of creative work in any literary form. Drawing on ideas and techniques learned in modules on specific literary forms and approaches, which may be studied before or alongside this one, participants will be guided through the process of planning, drafting and redrafting a portfolio of work in fiction, drama or poetry. Discussions with a supervisor will encourage a reflective and critical approach to the creative process, informing a commentary on the decisions made during writing. The module provides an opportunity to develop an independent writing practice in preparation for the Creative Writing MA Dissertation.

Assessment Strategy

Assessment criteria:

70% and above

Typically, the work of a candidate reaching Distinction will show many of the following qualities:

Excellent levels of originality, vision and depth; striking and thorough engagement with ideas. Excellent understanding and control of form and technique. Impressive linguistic control and/or innovation. Sophisticated critical understanding of the creative process and confident ability to conceptualise approaches to writing. Dynamic work.

60-69%

A candidate’s work reaching Merit will show many of the following qualities:

Demonstration of vitality and originality; sustained engagement with ideas. Very good understanding of generic conventions; sound use of structures, forms and technique. Resourceful and imaginative use of language. Clear critical understanding of the creative process and ability to think conceptually about decisions made in writing. Very good work.

50-59%

A Pass candidate’s work will show many of the following qualities:

Original and interesting work with an attempt at serious exploration of ideas. Clear link between themes and form. Technically proficient and well-focused use of language. Sound critical understanding of the creative process and of decisions made in writing. Generally good work.

Learning Outcomes

• Ability to plan, develop and complete a sustained work of high literary quality in a chosen form.

• Confidence in recognising and solving problems in the writing process with reference to wider critical reading.

• Development of a reflective approach to writing and redrafting that will support future independent and self-critical practice.

• High-level skills in creative and critical writing.

• Sophisticated understanding of the relationship between a literary work and its social and cultural contexts, combined with the ability to apply this to own work.